MELAKA, 16 JULY 2026 – Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh officiates the fourth stop of the Platinum Business Awards 2026 Nationwide Roadshow, reaffirming support for SME development, digital transformation and international business growth
The Platinum Business Awards 2026 (PBA 2026) Nationwide Roadshow made its fourth stop in Melaka on 16 July, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, government agencies, financial institutions and industry partners to explore strategies for strengthening Malaysia’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Organised by the SME Association of Malaysia in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Entrepreneurship Association of Melaka, the event was held at Holiday Inn Melaka and officiated by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh.
Also in attendance was Kesidang Assemblyman Allex Seah Shoo Chin, representing Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim Chee Keong, reflecting the continued commitment of both the Federal Government and the Melaka State Government towards developing a competitive and resilient SME ecosystem.
Empowering SMEs Through Business Transformation
The roadshow served as a platform for meaningful discussions on several key issues shaping today’s business landscape, including business financing, digital transformation, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) adoption, talent development and sustainable business growth.
At the same time, the event encouraged Malaysian enterprises to leverage the Platinum Business Awards 2026 as a strategic platform to strengthen their corporate brands, gain national recognition and pursue international expansion opportunities.
Melaka Reinforces Its Commitment to SME Development
In his officiating address, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh reaffirmed the Melaka State Government’s commitment to supporting SMEs as a key pillar of the state’s economic growth.
He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to create a more conducive business environment by reducing barriers to business growth, encouraging innovation and attracting quality investments.
The Chief Minister revealed that the state government has allocated more than RM1.2 million to support over 15 entrepreneurship development programmes, benefiting more than 200 entrepreneurs. In addition, 24 entrepreneurs have received business development grants aimed at enhancing product quality, strengthening operations and expanding into new markets.
He expressed confidence that continued collaboration between the Federal and State Governments would further enhance the competitiveness of Malaysian SMEs.
PBA 2026 Recognises Business Excellence Beyond Awards
President of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Entrepreneurship Association of Melaka, Patric Chang Chun Kuang, described the Platinum Business Awards as more than a recognition programme.
He said the awards have evolved into a prestigious national platform that celebrates outstanding Malaysian enterprises for excellence in leadership, innovation, resilience and sustainable business practices.
He encouraged more Melaka-based businesses to participate in PBA 2026 and showcase their achievements on the national stage, while elevating the reputation of Melaka’s business community.
Preparing Businesses for a Changing Global Economy
National President of the SME Association of Malaysia, Dr Chin Chee Seong, noted that businesses today are navigating unprecedented challenges, including artificial intelligence, digital transformation, ESG requirements, cybersecurity threats, talent shortages and global economic uncertainty.
He emphasised that, after more than two decades, the Platinum Business Awards has become far more than an awards programme. It recognises forward-looking enterprises that demonstrate innovation, sound corporate governance, resilience and long-term value creation.
“Winning the Platinum Business Awards is not simply about receiving a trophy,” he said. “It represents national recognition, strengthens corporate credibility and brand reputation, and opens doors to new customers, investors, strategic partnerships and international business opportunities.”
A Strategic Investment in Brand Building
Organising Chairman of Platinum Business Awards 2026, Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, said receiving the award marks only the beginning of a company’s branding journey.
Beyond the recognition itself, winners benefit from nationwide media exposure, publication opportunities, professional brand positioning, digital marketing support and extensive business networking opportunities.
He added that the overall branding value of the winners’ package exceeds RM250,000, making participation in PBA 2026 “not an expense, but a strategic investment in a company’s brand.”
Knowledge Sharing Supports SME Growth
Alongside the awards roadshow, participants attended a Business Dialogue Session with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN), providing businesses with direct access to tax officials and updates on the latest taxation policies affecting the business community.
The programme also featured knowledge-sharing sessions from several organisations, including:
- Alliance Islamic Bank on SME financing solutions
- U Business on digital connectivity
- Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on investment and industrial development opportunities
- Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) on workforce development
- ESG Association of Malaysia on sustainable business practices
These sessions provided SMEs with valuable insights into market trends, government support initiatives and practical strategies to improve competitiveness and accelerate business transformation.
Nominations for PBA 2026 Remain Open
Carrying the theme “Governance, Digitalisation and Intelligence,” the Platinum Business Awards 2026 is now accepting nominations until 31 August 2026.
Award recipients will be honoured at the Platinum Business Awards 2026 Gala Dinner, scheduled to take place on 19 November 2026 at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre.
The SME Association of Malaysia encourages outstanding enterprises across the country to participate in PBA 2026 and use the platform to strengthen their brands, gain nationwide recognition and expand into international markets.
